This is a new, unused kensui (water container) by Heizan Onimaru. It was purchased at a tea ceremony道具 store in Kyoto. Heizan-san says, "Pottery begins with the earth." He also says that the "earth" is what defines the characteristics of Takatori ware. "The soil collected in Koishiwara is fine and known for its firm firing. When made into clay, it has a unique stickiness, allowing for graceful lines to be drawn, and even when fired thinly, water does not seep through, so it can be made as thin as porcelain. All the work, from crushing the soil to making the clay, making the ash that becomes the glaze material, mixing the glaze, and procuring the firewood used in the kiln, is done within the kiln. This is because it is important to have clay, glaze, and firing that match the earth in order to make good things, and it is also a teaching from the previous generation to do things using our own eyes and hands." The finished product is wonderful, with the thinness and lightness of porcelain, which is a characteristic of Takatori ware, and the gorgeous use of glaze colors. Please note that there may be some deterioration due to long-term storage at home. Please purchase only if you can understand after confirming the images. No returns or refunds, please.